digitalcitizenship2009 - Digital Communication

Cell phones, instant messaging (IM), videoconferencing, and e-mail have created a new social structure governing who, how and when people interact
Digital communication provides instant access
E-mail is preferred because it provides of record of communication
Users need to think about what they write in e-mail because even though a message is deleted it is usually backed up on a server
Teachers and administrators feel cell phones are a major distraction and a catalyst for behavior problems
Decisions need to be made on how to teach students appropriate use of these technologies

How do these communication methods fit in the educational setting?
What positive outcomes do they enable?
What potentially negative effects must be mitigated and how?
If these technologies are banned in schools, what message does that send to our students who have access to these devices outside of school?
Do I use e-mail, cell phone, and instant messaging technologies appropriately when communicating with others?
What rules, options, and etiquette do students need to be aware of when using digital communication technologies?
Do we need to be in contact with people all the time?
Do we understand what is appropriate when communicating with other technology users?

Students leave ringers on high volume and keep their phones on during class time.
Students use instant messaging and e-mail shorthand for class assignments when asked to give complete answers.
Students use text messaging to cheat on tests.

Students and teacher use digital communication devices when they will not interrupt what is going on in the school or classroom.
Digital communication technologies such as IM and blogs are used to support student activities in the classroom, such as sharing ideas or writings with others.
Teachers use blogs to inform parents of classroom activities.

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